The great ecological diversity of the Gila National Forest provides for a remarkably varied bird fauna; 166 species are known to breed in the Gila, 114 others are more or less regular non-breeders, and 57 species are considered to be casual (recorded 3-5 times) or accidental (recorded once or twice). To obtain a checklist of local birds call the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument Visitor Center at (505) 536-9461 and ask for a copy of the brochure "Birds of the Gila National Forest: A Checklist" or click on the link below.
Did You Know?
The rocks at Hovenweep were deposited over 100 million years ago during the Cretaceous Period. The landscape at that time featured streams, lakes and flood plains. The Dakota Sandstone forms the mesa tops and cliffs in the area, while the Burro Canyon Shale forms talus slopes.